While many SLM practices do indeed provide multiple livelihood and environment synergetic benefits, it is important that such multi-functionality be reflected in the performance indicators chosen and that the issue of trade-offs be clearly defined, discussed and measured. The definition of synergies and trade-offs that are inherent in many SLM practices would not only help to enhance the design, implementation, and scale-up of SLM investments, but would also be key in enhancing sustainability of interventions. While clearly elaborating what is meant by synergies and trade-offs in the context of specific SLM investments, such work should: (a) prepare an empirical assessment of the synergies between SLM, climate change action, etc, and (b) provide location-specific multi-dimensional (e.g., financial, environmental, social, etc.) analysis of the inherent trade-offs between local livelihood-related activities and recommended SLM measures supported by any given investment.
